Tomosynthesis is done at the same time as a traditional mammogram. Click to (Charlotte Radiology photo)

HUNTERSVILLE – Charlotte Radiology said it has begun offering digital breast tomosynthesis (also known as 3D mammography) at its Huntersville Breast Center, after introducing it in Charlotte last summer.  

“This revolutionary technology reveals greater detail, which may help us detect cancer sooner,” Dr. Amy Sobel, a breat-imaging specialist Charlotte Radiology, said in a press release. “Our patients welcome the access to this procedure, and we continue to broaden our geographic reach so that women across the region have this option.”

Charlotte Radiology is in the CMC-Northcross Medical building, 16455 Statesville Road, Suite 110-B, Huntersville.

Tomosynthesis was approved by the FDA in February 2011. It’s a modification of the current 2D (digital) mammography, creating multiple images, or “slices,” that step through the breast tissue. This allows the radiologist to see more clearly and helps reduce the impact of overlapping breast tissue. The process is performed at the same time as a traditional 2D mammogram, Charlotte Radiology said. 

It’s not yet covered by insurance plans, so most patients will pay a $50 fee. More information is at www.charlotteradiology.com/tomo.

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